US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has warned of the risk of terrorism, political instability and conflict over competition for scarce water supplies worldwide over the next few decades.

Mrs Clinton highlighted risks outlined in the unclassified version of a report on global water security – which she had requested – that was released by the National Intelligence Council.

“I think it’s fair to say the intelligence community’s findings are sobering,” she said about the report that focused on the potential water problems between now and 2040.

A summary of the report said North Africa, the Middle East and South Asia “will face major challenges coping with water problems”, particularly as a result of population growth and increased economic demand.